by David Jackson, USA TODAY

by David Jackson, USA TODAY

The vice president -- who renewed his membership just this week, it turns out -- flashed his Costco bona fides Thursday, as he helped the discount retailer at the grand opening of its first store in Washington, D.C.

Costco CEO Craig Jelinek greeted Biden before his shopping spree, as did company co-founder Jim Sinegal.

The visit was part of the administration's effort to encourage consumer spending this holiday season -- and to pressure Republicans into accepting a debt reduction that includes higher taxes on the wealthy, and to avoid the "fiscal cliff."

"Consumer confidence is growing," Biden told reporters. "The last thing we need to do is dash that."

Biden, who spoke to other shoppers as he wheeled a cart down the aisles of Costco, noted that Congress also needs to extend the George W. Bush tax cuts for the middle class.

Christmas appeared to be high on Biden's list, as he picked up children's books, fire logs, a big apple pie, and a 32-inch Panasonic television.

As Biden stocked up, other shoppers snapped pictures with cellphones.

A pool report said it is "unknown" if Biden bought a watch, "though he spent considerable time at the counter looking at them, including a $1,200 one, and put in a call to his daughter, Ashley, saying he needed to 'get some guidance.'"

The White House later said Biden bought a watch, but not for $1,200. (The price was not disclosed.)

White House officials said the Bidens have been Costco members in the past, but not since they moved into the vice president's residence. They reactivated their memberships Wednesday, paying the $55 membership fee for their new cards.